Vol. 6 No. 11 (2024): Volume 06 Issue 11

Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) have increasingly become integral to the transformation of higher education, offering significant benefits while also presenting challenges. This study examines the dual role of ICT in reshaping higher education by focusing on both its advantages and the barriers to its effective implementation. The research highlights the ways in which ICT enhances learning experiences through increased access to educational resources, online learning platforms, and personalized learning opportunities. It also explores the potential of ICT to foster collaboration and innovation within academic institutions. However, the study also addresses the barriers associated with ICT integration, such as infrastructure limitations, digital literacy gaps, and the unequal access to technology among students. Through a comprehensive analysis of these factors, the research aims to provide a balanced perspective on the impact of ICT on teaching and learning in higher education, while suggesting strategies for overcoming the challenges to fully harness its potential.

Background:

The well-being of orphans has been a persistent issue, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where the orphan population has surged due to factors such as the HIV/AIDS pandemic, terrorism, and natural disasters. In Nigeria, these children face significant medical, social, and psychological challenges, including malnutrition, limited access to education, stigmatization, and behavioural issues. Despite some interventions, many orphanages focus primarily on addressing material needs, often neglecting comprehensive medical, social welfare, and psychosocial support. This study assesses the psychosocial well-being of orphans living in orphanages across Kaduna State, Nigeria.

Methodology:

A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted involving 100 orphans from selected orphanages in Kaduna. Data collection utilized interviewer-administered questionnaires, capturing information on socio-demographic details, medical conditions, behavioural patterns, stigma levels, psychosocial well-being, and coping mechanisms. The study also measured nutritional status and assessed access to healthcare and educational opportunities.

Results:

The average age of participants was 10 years, with a male majority (68%). While 54.9% reported access to balanced diets, 53.7% were classified as underweight, emphasizing ongoing nutritional challenges. Medical issues were prominent, with 33.7% showing clinical signs of illness and 46.7% being incompletely immunized. Behavioural problems were evident, including hyperactivity disorders (27.0%) and major depressive disorder (1.8%). Furthermore, enuresis affected 22.3% of the respondents. Despite these difficulties, the majority (83.3%) reported positive peer relationships, though 11.4% experienced bullying and 9% faced stigmatization. Education access was relatively high, with only 2.2% not attending school, and 89.2% displayed good self-esteem. Social support was moderate, with 35.2% receiving substantial support and 46.8% adopting goal adjustment strategies for coping.

Conclusion:

This study highlights the complex psychosocial challenges faced by orphans in Kaduna, encompassing medical, social, and behavioural issues. While most orphans showed resilience through positive self-esteem and peer relationships, the prevalence of health problems, behavioural disorders, and suboptimal coping strategies underscores the necessity for integrated care. A holistic approach addressing medical, social welfare, and psychosocial needs is critical for improving the overall well-being of these vulnerable children.

ZENODO DOI:- https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.14050421

This paper explores the intersection of discourse and learning through a critical lens, emphasizing the significance of language in shaping educational practices and outcomes. Employing Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) as the primary methodological framework, the study examines how language use in educational settings influences power dynamics, identity formation, and knowledge construction. Through an analysis of classroom interactions, educational policies, and curricular materials, the research reveals the ways in which discourse reflects and perpetuates societal norms and inequalities. The findings underscore the importance of critically examining language in education to foster more inclusive and equitable learning environments. By highlighting the role of discourse in shaping educational experiences, this paper advocates for the incorporation of CDA into educational research and practice to promote transformative pedagogy and empower learners.

Purpose and Objectives: Law, over time, has faced all the changes in society, both political, economic and social, but also technological, the latter being a decisive factor of our days. It has permanently adapted itself through legislative changes at all levels, so that the very development of society is not hampered.

 Proposals and Methodology: At present, decisive changes are taking place, due to the involvement of artificial intelligence, but also due to the fact that we are in the midst of a digital era, constantly promoted by the development of technology.

 Results and Implications: The main issue that arises is the fact that it has not yet been established whether the legal norms, both national and international, can easily adapt to digitalization, so whether AI can use the norms as such in obtaining similar results to the judgments handed down by the courts.

ZENODO DOI:- https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.14061630

The extraordinary magnitude of population displacement, stemming from conflict, persecution, and natural disasters, has exerted significant strain on international organizations, governments, and civil society. Humanitarian interventions, involving various actions undertaken by these entities, are essential in supplying refugees with vital resources, protective measures, and possibilities to endure and reconstruct their lives. This study thoroughly evaluates the influence of humanitarian interventions on refugee welfare, investigating their roles and impacts, addressing their challenges and triumphs, and offering policy recommendations to enhance refugee welfare through more effective humanitarian initiatives. The research design is qualitative, employing secondary data sources including scholarly publications, policy documents, and reports from international organizations and NGOs. Data and visualizations from Our World in Data were utilized to examine trends and patterns in refugee welfare, encompassing access to fundamental requirements, protection, healthcare, education, livelihoods, and psychosocial assistance. The results underscore the substantial influence of humanitarian efforts on refugee well-being, as demonstrated by the examination of the Syrian and Rohingya refugee crises. The graphical representation depicts the significant spike in asylum applicants resulting from these crises and the extent of dislocation experienced by impacted populations. The study highlights the necessity of ongoing and extensive humanitarian aid to meet the varied requirements of refugees, encompassing shelter, nutrition, healthcare, psychosocial support, and protection. The study indicates that humanitarian interventions are essential for improving refugee welfare; nonetheless, hurdles remain, including resource limitations, coordination difficulties, and the necessity to transition from short-term relief to long-term development. Recommendations encompass enhancing global alliances, ensuring equitable burden-sharing, integrating long-term development goals, refining legislative frameworks, prioritizing vulnerable populations, and investigating novel finance options.

Background: Orphans in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly Nigeria, face increasing challenges due to the HIV/AIDS epidemic, terrorism, and natural disasters, leading to a growing orphan population. In addition to the material hardships experienced by orphans, stigmatization remains a profound issue, exacerbating their medical, social, and psychological well-being. Stigma affects children’s self-esteem, mental health, social relationships, and access to opportunities, making it a critical area of concern for orphaned children in institutional care. This study investigates the impact of stigma on the well-being of children in orphanages in Kaduna, Nigeria, focusing on medical, social, and psychosocial aspects of their lives.

Methodology: This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 100 children living in orphanages across Kaduna. Data were collected through interviewer-administered questionnaires designed to capture socio-demographic data, medical conditions, behavioural patterns, stigma levels, and psychosocial status. The study also explored how these children cope with the stigma associated with being orphans.

Results: The findings revealed a significant presence of stigma among the orphan population, with 9% of children reporting being stigmatized by peers. Although 83.3% of respondents indicated positive peer relationships, bullying affected 11.4% of the children. Medical issues were prevalent, with 53.7% of the children underweight and 46.7% not fully immunized. Behavioural disorders such as hyperactivity (27%) and enuresis (22.3%) were also common. Despite these challenges, 89.2% reported good self-esteem, although many employed maladaptive coping mechanisms, with 46.8% adjusting their goals to cope with their circumstances.

Conclusion: The study highlights the pervasive impact of stigma on the well-being of orphans in Kaduna, contributing to psychological distress and health challenges. Addressing the stigma and its effects requires comprehensive intervention strategies that integrate medical, psychosocial, and educational support.

Over the past decade, Nigeria has faced a complex set of challenges, with corruption, crude oil theft, and national security issues being at the forefront. These problems have created a vicious cycle, where each issue exacerbates the other, leading to significant economic, political, and social repercussions. This study employs a longitudinal research design to investigate the relationship between national security, crude oil theft, and political corruption in Nigeria from 2013 to 2023. Nigeria, a leading global oil producer, has long grappled with security challenges, particularly in the Niger Delta region, where crude oil theft, violent events, and corruption have been pervasive. Using secondary data sourced from repositories, the study examines trends in crude oil theft, violent fatalities, and political corruption. Data were cleaned and analysed using R. The analysis reveals fluctuating trends in crude oil theft and corruption over the decade, with periods of peak activity aligning with political and security instability. The highest levels of crude oil theft were recorded in 2013 and 2023, while the political corruption index saw a significant decline from 2015 onwards, suggesting the partial success of anti-corruption measures. The findings highlight a complex interplay between corruption and oil theft, with spikes in violence and fatalities corresponding to key years of political unrest. The study underscores the importance of targeted interventions to address the cyclical nature of corruption, theft, and insecurity in Nigeria’s oil sector.

BACKGROUND The integration of assistive technologies in educational settings offers a promising avenue to enhance the learning experience for students with disabilities. These technologies, including voice recognition software, screen readers, and customizable learning management systems (LMS), have the potential to promote autonomy and engagement by accommodating diverse learning needs. This research will evaluate the effectiveness of these assistive technologies in supporting independent learning among these students. RESEARCH AIM The research aims to assess the usage and accessibility of assistive technologies in GBS, quantify their impact on students with disabilities, and identify the most effective technologies for enhancing learning outcomes. METHODS The study will involve surveys and performance metrics analysis among students with disabilities across various campuses of GBS. Statistical methods, including regression analysis and t-tests, will be employed to analyse the data. RESULTS Expected findings include detailed insights into assistive technology usage patterns and quantitative evidence of their impact on independent learning and academic performance. Recommendations for effective assistive technologies will be provided. CONCLUSION This research is expected to offer empirical evidence on the role of assistive technologies in supporting independent learning for students with disabilities, guiding educational institutions towards creating more inclusive environments.

The body, whether normal or pathological, places the person at the center of interactions. Our study focuses on the deficient body, located at the first level of personal factors in the process of producing disability situations. It helps to understand the difficulties of social inclusion of the person because of their physical failures. The approach to the body and disability is the one chosen in this contribution. This approach is that of the physical modalities and the relationship to the world of the person living with a disability. The body of the person with a disability, through its multiple malformations, dysfunctions, postures and specific rhythms, its different techniques and uses of the body, limits its capacities for empowerment, adaptation and inclusion. Due to its differences, dissimilarities, its inability to perform a task, its incompetence, its monstrous character, its fragility, ... the deficient body is seen and recognized as an antisocial body. Because it resists socialization and is treated as non-standard, non-productive, non-compliant and unsuitable.

The extralinguistic aspects of Uzbek political speech are investigated in this paper together with the ways in which social, historical, and cultural factors affect the political message delivery. The research shows how important these extralinguistic elements—such as gestures, facial expressions, and cultural references—are in establishing authority, changing public opinion, and preserving cultural values by contrasting Uzbek political communication with its English counterpart. Based on qualitative content analysis of eminent speeches given by political leaders from Uzbek and English-speaking backgrounds, the study offers closer understanding of how context shapes political language and efficacy.

Jonathan Swift's Gulliver’s Travels is a profound satire of 18th-century society, politics, and human nature, portrayed through the adventures of Lemuel Gulliver. The article analyzes the transformation of Gulliver’s character, from a rational man to a disillusioned misanthrope, in the context of Swift’s critique of Enlightenment ideals. By exploring the literary perspectives of prominent scholars, the article sheds light on Swift’s use of satire to challenge the intellectual and political climate of his time.

This article deals with the actual challenges in teaching Russian literature and efficient and straightforward solutions to them, utilizing the non-literary factors. Even the results have been supported clearly.

In this article, the author analized the  importance of cultural heritage in preventing the conflict and reinforcing the unity of  the youth, studied the investigated  reasearch works and proposed the effective methods and their impacts based on the scientists’ investigations.

The article deals with the determinants, foundations, principles, and priorities of Egypt’s foreign policy under President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi. Based on geopolitics and cultural and historical heritage, in the field of public diplomacy of Egypt, a special place and role of the country is declared. The Islamic factor, the geographical position of the state, the features of its history, the colonial past and relations with such powers as the USA, the USSR / Russia, Great Britain, and France, the presence of the Suez Canal, and the problem of distributing the water resources of the Nile River are the determinants that predetermine the main directions of its foreign politicians. The basic principles of Egypt’s foreign policy are a traditional set of provisions, characteristic of many states, adjusted for the geopolitical situation and developmental features.

The geopolitical features of the ARE, its identity, and the tasks of ensuring national security necessitate the existence of various “circles” of national interests. The “Arab circle” includes a broader understanding of national security based on the security of its Arab and African periphery. The “African Circle” is determined by the desire to strengthen its relations with the countries of the continent in the economic and cultural fields, taking into account the special importance of the states of the Nile basin as the “strategic depth” of the ARE. The “Islamic circle” for Egypt means finding and working out solutions to the problems of the Islamic world, spreading the values of moderation and tolerance of Islam, and encouraging interfaith dialogue. The “Asian circle” includes strengthening relations with the leading Asian powers to become part of the coming “Asia Age”. The “European circle” concerns relations with the European Union. Within the framework of the “international circle”, Egypt’s relations with the leading world powers are being built.

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has had a profound impact on global health and society, severely affecting mental and physical health outcomes (Wallace et al., 2020; Omoregie and Carson, 2023). It also disrupted international politics, caused significant economic downturns, and exacerbated existing vulnerabilities (Marraha et al., 2023). These cascading effects have heightened global vigilance against emerging infectious diseases, including the Mpox virus, which poses a serious threat to public health and wellbeing.
Mpox, previously referred to as monkeypox, is a zoonotic viral infection caused by the monkeypox virus. It has become a growing concern due to its association with new outbreaks in several regions (Mittal et al., 2022; Abejegah, Obohwemu & Mdegela, 2024). To address the stigma associated with the term “monkeypox,” the World Health Organization (WHO) introduced the term “Mpox” in 2022 (WHO, 2022). Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the WHO declared Mpox a public health emergency of international concern, emphasizing the need for robust global responses and preventive measures (Ahmed et al., 2022).
While Mpox is primarily a physical health concern, its psychological ramifications are equally significant. The outbreak has the potential to exacerbate existing mental health challenges and introduce new psychological stressors, such as heightened anxiety, depression, anger, recurrent sadness, and repetitive negative thinking. In addition, the disease can have indirect effects, such as financial losses and bereavement, which further compound mental health problems in affected individuals and communities.
The increasing prevalence of Mpox underscores its growing significance as a public health issue. In 2022, approximately 50,000 cases were reported globally across 100 countries. By January 2024, this number had doubled, with nearly 100,000 confirmed cases, according to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC, 2024). However, the actual scale of the Mpox outbreak may remain underestimated due to limited testing, underreporting, and challenges in surveillance. Harris (2024) and Abejegah, Obohwemu & Mdegela (2024) highlighted these gaps, suggesting that the true burden of Mpox may be significantly higher than currently reported.
In the United Kingdom (UK), Mpox was considered rare before 2022, with only seven confirmed cases. However, data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) revealed a substantial rise in cases, with 3,732 confirmed cases by the end of December 2023. Recent figures indicate an additional 286 cases reported by August 2024 (UKHSA, 2024). These statistics illustrate the persistent threat posed by Mpox and highlight the need for sustained efforts to monitor and control its spread.
Despite various containment strategies implemented globally, significant uncertainties remain regarding the trajectory of Mpox outbreaks. Healthcare systems, already overwhelmed by the resurgence of COVID-19, face added strain due to the Mpox outbreak (Rabiul Islam et al., 2022). The dual burden of managing these public health crises underscores the need for coordinated international action, enhanced surveillance, and increased investment in research and healthcare infrastructure.
One critical area of concern is the potential for Mpox to exacerbate mental health issues. There is substantial evidence linking COVID-19 to adverse mental health outcomes, including heightened anxiety, depression, and reduced wellbeing (Kauhanen et al., 2023; Omoregie and Carson, 2023; Kupcova et al., 2023). Similarly, emerging data suggest that Mpox can negatively affect mental health, particularly among those directly impacted by the disease.
Mpox has been associated with significant mental health challenges, including the onset or worsening of anxiety, depression, and other psychiatric disorders. These issues are often compounded by the social stigma, isolation, and emotional toll associated with the disease (Ogoina et al., 2020; Norberg et al., 2024; Le Forestier et al., 2024). In severe cases, the psychological burden of Mpox has led to suicidal tendencies (Chime et al., 2022). The stigma surrounding Mpox, rooted in misconceptions about its transmission and severity, further isolates affected individuals, impeding their access to care and support.
Public health programs must prioritize reducing stigma and misinformation to mitigate these psychological effects. Accurate and culturally sensitive communication about the nature of Mpox, its modes of transmission, and preventive measures can help reduce fear and discrimination (Daskalakis et al., 2022; Rabiul Islam et al., 2022). Targeted educational campaigns can foster greater awareness, encouraging individuals to seek timely medical attention and adhere to preventive guidelines without fear of judgment.
The mental health impact of Mpox is an area that remains poorly understood, necessitating further research to explore its complexities. Preliminary findings suggest that Mpox may contribute to the development of new mental health disorders or aggravate pre-existing conditions, including anxiety disorders, depression, and psychosis. These effects can be attributed to both the physical symptoms of the virus and the social isolation experienced by patients during recovery.
Additionally, the long-term mental health consequences of Mpox require closer examination. Similar to post-COVID-19 syndromes, individuals recovering from Mpox may experience residual psychological challenges that persist well beyond their physical recovery. Understanding these effects is crucial for developing effective interventions and support systems for affected individuals.
Research should also focus on identifying vulnerable populations, such as healthcare workers, who may face increased psychological stress due to their roles in managing Mpox cases. Studies exploring the experiences of frontline workers during the Mpox outbreak can provide valuable insights into the broader mental health implications of the disease and inform strategies for supporting these critical personnel.
The Mpox outbreak underscores the interconnectedness of global health systems and the need for coordinated international responses to emerging infectious diseases. Governments and health organizations must work together to address both the physical and mental health dimensions of Mpox, recognizing that the two are inextricably linked.
Efforts to control the Mpox outbreak should include strengthening surveillance systems by enhancing disease monitoring and reporting mechanisms to provide a clearer picture of the outbreak's scale and inform targeted interventions. Investing in mental health support by expanding access to mental health services, particularly in areas heavily affected by Mpox, can help mitigate the psychological burden of the outbreak. Reducing stigma through public education by disseminating accurate information about Mpox can combat misinformation and promote understanding, reducing fear and discrimination. Promoting international collaboration by sharing resources, knowledge, and best practices among countries can enhance the effectiveness of global responses to Mpox.
The Mpox outbreak represents a significant public health challenge with far-reaching implications for physical and mental health. Addressing this crisis requires a multifaceted approach that includes robust surveillance, effective public education, and comprehensive mental health support. As the world continues to grapple with the dual burden of Mpox and COVID-19, it is imperative to recognize the interconnected nature of these challenges and invest in solutions that address both their immediate and long-term impacts. Prioritizing research, fostering collaboration, and promoting resilience will better prepare us for future public health emergencies and ensure the wellbeing of affected populations.